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'12 Years a Slave' sweeps Spirit Awards

By Jake Coyle, Associated Press

Posted:
03/01/2014 07:56:03 PM MST

Updated:
03/01/2014 07:56:07 PM MST

Steve McQueen accepts the award for best director for "12 Years a Slave" on stage at the 2014 Film Independent Spirit Awards, on Saturday, March 1, 2014, in Santa Monica, Calif. (Chris Pizzello/AP Photo)

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — ”12 Years a Slave” rolled at the Spirit Awards, winning five awards including best feature at the annual independent film celebration.

On the eve of the Academy Awards, the historical drama won awards for director Steve McQueen, actress Lupita Nyong'o, screenwriter John Ridley and cinematographer Sean Bobbitt. In a more laid-back, beachside ceremony in Santa Monica, just west of Los Angeles, “12 Years a Slave” was clearly the favorite of the indie circuit.

All of the acting favorites were honored as expected, including best actor for Matthew McConaughey in “Dallas Buyers Club” and Cate Blanchett in “Blue Jasmine.” McConaughey's co-star, Jared Leto, won best male supporting performance. Along with Nyong'o, all are the front-runners at the Oscars.

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